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In a statement the Home Office said: “Under some circumstances assaults on support animals could be treated as criminal damage, allowing for penalties of up to 10 years’ imprisonment.

“An additional offence dealing specifically with attacks on police animals may not result in more prosecutions or increased sentences.”

Hertfordshire Police of a police dog named Finn that was left seriously injured after being repeatedly stabbed while chasing an armed suspect. (Image: Hertfordshire Police/PA Wire)

Animal lovers have previously called for tougher sentences for offences prosecuted under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, which currently can be punished with an unlimited fine and/or six months in prison.

German shepherd Finn was stabbed in the head and chest and his handler, PC Dave Wardell, received a hand injury after they pursued a suspect in the early hours of 5 October.

Finn underwent four hours of emergency surgery and is now recovering at home in Hertfordshire.